I’m writing this quick update from Barcelona, where I am getting ready for the last big regatta this season, the 2017 Laser European Championship. I arrived Saturday morning (the 30th) and got out on the water for a training session right away. It was great conditions (starting around 12 knots, dying throughout the day) with big chop and waves, which I haven’t sailed in for a while. I was a bit sleep deprived and hungry from the flights over, but it was a great session to get the boat sorted and check out the racing area. The next day we had measurement and check-in, but no sailing. Today we had a full day off and did a bit of sight-seeing around the city. Barcelona is beautiful and exciting! It is really nice to have a bit of time to get a taste of its culture; something we often don’t have time for when traveling for competitions.

I’m feeling excited to get out on the water for racing tomorrow. Building on what I learned from Worlds I am actively working to stay relaxed before the competition starts, and to focus on processes rather than outcomes. I’m going to let go of externals I can’t control and think about making my boat go fast around the race course. If after a race I can tell you I was thinking about which strategy I needed to execute at each part of the course, prioritizing speed, and not worrying about my finishing score, then it will be a big success for me, regardless of the outcome. I’m looking forward to getting out there and putting that into practice!